International update
Teaching and progression across the globe Our five international representatives give their perspectives on teaching, examinations, and the importance of continuing professional development.
Australasia Jess Walker, our International Representative for Australasia, talks to her students and asks why they think teaching dance is much more than just a career. Anyone who teaches, no matter the subject, knows that ‘teacher’ is only just the beginning of the job description. Yes, as dance teachers we teach our students dance technique, musicality, artistry and a passion for dance, but we teach them life skills as well. Work ethic, dedication, teamwork and dealing with failures all spring to mind. Further to that, we become their mentors, supporting them through the hard times in their lives, cheering them on through their successes, both in and out of the studio. We create a space where students can escape reality, feel free to fully express themselves and for a duration of time, just be! We as teachers know this, but sometimes I don’t think we realise the full impact we have on our students. We could change the course of their lives with just a single comment, and we can reassure them that we believe that they can achieve their wildest dreams. Alex Reelick was so impacted by her teachers growing up, their influence created options and directed her life in a way that she feels she can now pay it forward to the next generation. "To me, being a dance teacher isn’t just about teaching dance. We become a strong, caring, supportive figure for each one of our students while they navigate the challenges that are thrown at them. Growing up, my teacher, Jess, was like my second mum. Whenever my own mum was away for work, or I just needed a person I could talk to, she was there for me… and still is! Along with my other teachers, Hillary Moulder and Lisa-Marie Hallam, Jess was someone 26 Dance | Issue 496
we could look up to and take inspiration from as women working in the performing arts industry. The way that these ladies taught us has absolutely influenced and shaped my friends and I into the young women that we’ve become. “It’s all about paying it forward. My teachers inspired and encouraged me both in and out of the studio and I’d like to think that I have been able to pass this on to the next generation of dancers.” Jacinta Kelly is new to teaching and is just starting her professional qualifications with the ISTD. She is at the precipice of deciding what her next chapter in life is and feels that the ISTD teaching qualifications are a real option. “My ISTD teachers have influenced my life greatly. They have been with me through all the highs and lows, supporting me every step of the way. I have found them to be so much more than just a ‘teacher’ to me. Yes, they help me to learn, grow and thrive in dance, but they are also part of my support network. Whenever I feel down or alone, they will always be there to listen and give me the advice and support I need. "By working together with my ISTD teachers, they have created a safe and loving environment in which I feel I can express myself openly, with no judgement. I know my opinions will be heard and respected. Most importantly, my teachers are my friends who I aspire to be like one day. They’ve influenced me to consider training through the ISTD to teach and inspire the next generation!" Teaching is such a rewarding career, every day is different, every class is different, and you can make such an impact on your students.
